Cow's Milk Allergy and Eczema: Why Your Doctor May Suggest Changing Feeding

A possible link between the two

There is some overlap between eczema in infants and young children and food allergy. Some infants with moderate to severe eczema also have cow's milk allergy. When assessing this, doctors look at skin signs, digestive symptoms, feeding history and family allergy history together. They then decide whether tests are needed or whether feeding should be adjusted for a set period.

Skin care must not stop

• Use emollient (moisturizer) in large amounts and often. Applying it within three minutes after a bath works better
• Choose gentle, fragrance-free cleaning products. Avoid water that is too hot and long soaking
• Keep nails short to reduce damage and infection from scratching
• Wear soft cotton clothing. Wash bedding regularly in hot water

Principles of feeding adjustment

Whether to adjust feeding and how to do it should be decided by a doctor, and the child should be watched for a clear, set period of time. Parents are not advised to avoid many foods on their own for a long time. This can affect the child's nutrition and make it harder to judge symptoms. If eczema covers a large area, weeps fluid, or keeps the child awake at night, or if there is slow growth, repeated vomiting or diarrhoea, see a doctor as soon as possible.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.